Hacker games, AI travel surveillance, and 25 years of IoT
Jan 16, 2025
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In this lively discussion, cybersecurity expert Dave Bittner dives into the chaotic intersection of gaming, celebrity, and security, spotlighting a shocking breach at Grinding Gear Games. They dissect the implications of AI in travel surveillance, questioning the ethics behind predictive algorithms. The talk also highlights the absurdities of wealth in gaming culture, poking fun at Elon Musk's questionable skills. Finally, Bittner urges listeners to be wary of IoT devices, reflecting on the risks from the latest CES showcase.
The hacking incident involving 'Path of Exile 2' underscores the critical importance of robust cybersecurity measures for protecting player data.
Discussions on predictive travel surveillance reveal concerns over privacy and bias, emphasizing the need for human oversight in AI-driven systems.
Deep dives
The Rise of Hacker Games
The podcast discusses the emergence of hacker games, highlighting the growing interest in the intersection of gaming and hacking. These games, like 'Path of Exile 2,' have attracted not just casual players but also high-profile individuals, such as Elon Musk. However, skepticism has arisen regarding Musk's gaming claims, with many suggesting that his level of play may be exaggerated due to his busy schedule managing multiple companies. Observers note discrepancies in Musk’s gameplay, leading to suspicions that he might not be as involved in leveling up his characters as he publicly asserts.
Path of Exile 2 Hacked: Player Data at Risk
A significant hacking incident surrounding the video game 'Path of Exile 2' is highlighted, where a hacker compromised an admin account linked to players' data. This breach allowed the hacker to reset passwords and access player accounts, creating uncertainty about the scope of the attack since logs of password changes were deleted automatically after 30 days. With around 290,000 players involved, many players reported that their in-game items and valuable currency, like divine orbs, had been stolen. The incident raises critical questions about cybersecurity measures and the importance of safeguarding player data.
Predictive Travel Surveillance: A Double-Edged Sword
The episode delves into the topic of predictive travel surveillance, shedding light on how data collection for security has evolved over time. With systems designed to assess traveler risk based on detailed records shared by airlines, concerns about privacy and bias arise. An example discusses the potential for AI to expedite customs processes, but the risks of false flags and the opacity of the systems complicate the picture. Experts caution against allowing AI to take over tasks, such as identifying human trafficking victims, which could lead to a reduction in human oversight.
The Internet of Things: Evolution and Concerns
The podcast reflects on the state of the Internet of Things (IoT) 25 years after the concept's inception, noting the dramatic increase in connected devices worldwide. While some advancements, such as the introduction of a cybersecurity label for IoT devices, offer promise, skepticism remains regarding the effectiveness of voluntary certification programs. The discussion critiques the focus on flashy, unnecessary technology while cautioning users about security risks associated with IoT devices, such as weak security protocols and potential privacy invasions. Overall, it emphasizes the importance of critically evaluating the necessity and security of smart devices in daily life.
The video game Path of Exile 2 suffers a security breach, we explore the issues of using predictive algorithms in travel surveillance systems, and the very worst IoT devices are put on show in Las Vegas. Oh, and has Elon Musk accidentally revealed he cheats at video games?
All this and much much more is discussed in the latest edition of the "Smashing Security" podcast by cybersecurity veterans Graham Cluley and Carole Theriault, joined this week by The Cyberwire's Dave Bittner.
Warning: This podcast may contain nuts, adult themes, and rude language.